LeMieux Arika Contoured Leather Dressage Girth
Description
LeMieux Arika Contoured Dressage Girth
The LeMieux Arika Contoured Dressage Girth is a short leather dressage girth shaped to follow the horse's natural contours behind the elbow. It is best for dressage and flatwork riders who want even pressure distribution, a secure saddle position and a D-ring for attaching training aids.
Made from soft, supple leather with slightly elasticated straps, it allows a degree of give as the horse works without compromising saddle stability. Browse more girths to compare shapes and lengths.
Key Features
- Contoured shaping: follows the horse's shape for comfort and freedom of the muscles
- Soft, supple leather: absorbs pressure evenly across the surface area of the girth
- D-ring: allows easy attachment of training aids
- Slightly elasticated straps: flexibility without affecting saddle stability
- Saddle security: helps prevent the saddle from slipping during work
- Dressage styling: sleek and sophisticated finish for the arena
Specifications
| Brand | LeMieux |
|---|---|
| Model | Arika Contoured Dressage Girth |
| Type | Short dressage girth |
| Material | Soft, supple leather |
| Shape | Contoured / anatomic |
| Fittings | D-ring for training aids |
| Elastic | Slightly elasticated straps |
| Best for | Dressage, flatwork, schooling |
| Country of origin | India |
How to Use
- Measure an existing short girth that fits your horse, or measure between the girth straps under the saddle, to select the correct length in inches.
- Place the girth on the off side first, buckling onto the saddle's girth straps at an even height.
- Bring the girth under the belly and fasten on the near side, keeping the buckles level on both sides.
- Tighten gradually in stages rather than all at once, checking the skin behind the elbow is smooth and not pinched.
- Check the tension again after a few minutes of walking and before mounting.
- After riding, wipe the leather clean and allow it to dry naturally away from direct heat.
FAQ
What size dressage girth do I need?
Dressage girths are measured in inches from buckle end to buckle end. The simplest method is to measure a short girth that already fits your horse. Otherwise, measure between the girth straps under the saddle so the buckles sit clear of the elbow and below the rider's leg.
What is the D-ring for?
The D-ring allows the easy attachment of training aids, so you can use the girth for schooling and groundwork as well as ridden flatwork.
Why choose a contoured girth?
The contoured shaping curves away from the area behind the elbow, giving comfort and freedom of the muscles while the soft leather spreads pressure evenly across the girth.
Does the elastic affect saddle stability?
No. The straps are only slightly elasticated, which allows a little flexibility as the horse breathes and works without affecting the stability of the saddle.
How do I care for the leather?
Wipe clean after each ride, dry naturally away from direct heat and condition regularly with a leather balm or oil. Inspect the stitching, elastic and buckles before use and replace the girth if you find any wear or damage.
Is this girth only for dressage?
It is designed as a short dressage girth for use with dressage saddles and long girth straps, but it suits any flatwork or schooling session in that saddle.
About LeMieux
LeMieux is a British equestrian brand producing coordinated saddlery, horsewear and rider equipment. Its dressage range is widely used at home and in competition by riders who want a consistent, well-finished look on the yard and in the arena.